"This is truly a world class musical event... Many of the jazz festivals in the US would be hard pressed to compete with the excellent musicianship you presented…”, said Bob Montgomery from The American Jazz Quartet, Denver USA. He was describing, what will this year be, the 15th annual Magnetic Island Great Tropical Jazz Party and (now) Food Fair which will take place from Friday 26 to Sunday 28 August and features 10 bands, 40 musicians and 5 concerts.

Surrounded by the tropical gardens of the All Season Magnetic Island resort, this weekend of poolside jazz has a selection of the finest overseas and Australian musicians.

This increasingly popular jazz festival will feature The Jazz Divas accompanied by the Phil Broadhurst Trio (NZ). Two bands led by Miroslav Bukovsky, will present tributes to Duke Ellington and Miles 'Kind of Blue' (Sydney/Canberra). Ben Hauptman's Quintet – ‘Bob’ (Melbourne/Sydney). Completing this impressive lineup are the John Hoffman Sextet, Wild Silk Latin and Ingrid James Quartet (Brisbane). Local favourite Counterpoint (Townsville) will present a new line-up and Brer Van Der Fox Trio (Magnetic Island) will provide dinner music in the restaurant.

This eclectic mix of jazz styles will be presented in five concerts, starting Friday night at 7.30pm. The Saturday and Sunday afternoon concerts, 12noon to 6pm, each feature five sets, in a relaxed island setting. With a choice of dining either at the The Terrace Restaurant or poolside with a Food Fair, the sessions are intimate, laid back and friendly.

As festival director, Marilyn Sheather explained, “The uniqueness of the Great Tropical Jazz Party lies in the fact that all performances are held at the one venue. This enables these exceptionally talented musicians to interact and enjoy the holiday atmosphere, plus giving many opportunities to sit in with other great players and have a wonderful time.”

The weekend pass is only $70 and covers all sessions. Day passes are also available. Tickets are available at the door.

For more information on the Great Tropical Jazz Party & Food Fair:

Contact Marilyn Sheather on: 07 4778 5918 or email: magneticjazz@hotkey.net.au

For a full list of artists and the festival program visit www.magneticislandjazz.org

For accommodation bookings call All Seasons on 4778 5200.